Lasers are a valuable tool in ophthalmology, enabling a variety of procedures that can improve or even restore lost vision. There are several types of lasers used in ophthalmology, each with different clinical indications and distinct mechanisms of action.

Millions of patients with diabetes have been treated worldwide with laser photocoagulation for several decades. It is a treatment used in ophthalmology to treat not only diabetic retinopathy but various eye diseases such as retinal vascular occlusions, retinal tears and retinal detachments. It is a safe, outpatient procedure. The heating caused in the retina by laser photocoagulation is controlled and does not cause permanent damage to the retina if performed correctly. The ophthalmologist in charge of the procedure carefully monitors the intensity and duration of the light beam emitted by the laser, adjusting it according to clinical need. Photocoagulation has allowed millions of people to preserve their sight over several decades all over the world.

For many years the options to correct myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism were only to wear glasses or contact lenses. The last three decades have seen a revolution with the introduction of the Excimer laser to correct these refractive errors. It is an ultraviolet laser that works by removing microscopic layers of corneal tissue, changing its shape, and allowing light to focus properly on the retina. Benefits for patients include vision correction without the need to wear glasses or contact lenses. Your Ophthalmologist doctor will assess in advance whether you are a good candidate for this surgery, what the risks and benefits are.

Photodynamic therapy: is a treatment technique that uses a photosensitizing agent that is injected into the patient's bloodstream and activated by a laser of a specific wavelength. This activation creates, in the area of the lesion or tumor, a chemical reaction that destroys or reshapes abnormal cells and tissues in the eye. Photodynamic therapy is used to treat several conditions including central serous chorioretinopathy, polypoid vasculopathy, and intraocular tumors such as choroidal hemangioma.

Many people who have undergone cataract surgery notice months or years later that their vision is not so clear, and may even be very reduced. The YAG laser can solve these situations. It allows a posterior capsulotomy to be performed, that is, to create a hole in the posterior capsule on which the intraocular lens placed during cataract surgery rests. In fact, months or years after cataract surgery this capsule can become opacified, significantly diminishing vision. The YAG laser treatment is performed as an outpatient procedure and allows vision to be restored very quickly and safely.

In general, the benefits of lasers in ophthalmology include precise and effective procedures, less post-operative pain and discomfort, faster recovery, and better long-term visual outcomes. However, it is important to remember that each patient is unique and you should discuss all treatment options with your ophthalmologist before deciding which procedure is best suited for your clinical situation.